Lumbar Spinal Fusion — Post-Op Lumbar Fusion

Advanced Orthopedics and Sports Medicine (Houston Spine Surgeon) · Dr. Jeffrey H. Oppenheimer MD

Weight-Bearing

WBAT from POD 1; walking to 1/2 mile daily (15-30 min cardiovascular activity)

Key Restrictions

Avoid lifting/twisting/bending lumbar spine 6 wks; avoid lumbar loading Phase II; avoid twisting/bending; limit lumbar extension Phase II; no standing ROM testing until 12 wks; promote AROM after 8-10 wks

Timeline & Phases

3 phases: Phase I IPSP (0-8 wks, home HEP), Phase II OP PT (8-12 wks, 2-3x/wk), Phase III Advanced (12-18 wks, 2-3x/wk)

Notes

OP PT delayed to 8 wks (later than most); Phase II: multifidus/TA co-contraction with pressure biofeedback, pelvic stabilization, neural mobilization, balance begins wk 10-12; Phase III: advanced stabilization/proprioception, lifting training with proper posture; Pearls: low load high rep, local muscle system first, avoid prone extensions; FCE if appropriate

Surgeon / Author

Dr. Jeffrey H. Oppenheimer MD